The Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) celebrated its 48th Foundation Day at its headquarters, Apparel House, Gurugram, marking nearly five decades of dedicated service to the Indian apparel export industry.
On the occasion, Dr. A. Sakthivel, Chairman, AEPC, said, “The successful completion of 48 years reflects AEPC’s unwavering commitment to meeting the expectations of the apparel industry, particularly exporters. Over the years, the Council has consistently taken up industry concerns with the government and relevant stakeholders to promote, protect, and safeguard the interests of the ready-made garment (RMG) sector.”
Highlighting recent developments, Dr. Sakthivel added, “Aligned with the vision of the Hon’ble Prime Minister, sustained efforts have contributed to the signing of several landmark Free Trade Agreements, including the recent India–EU and India–US FTAs, which cover two of our largest markets. Despite global headwinds, geopolitical uncertainties, and ongoing supply chain disruptions, the sector registered a moderate export growth of 1.6% during April–January 2025-26 compared to the corresponding period of the previous financial year.”
He further noted that exports to several key markets have shown encouraging growth, including Italy (16%), the UK (4.8%), UAE (10.6%), Saudi Arabia (18.5%), Germany (8.7%), and Spain (7.1%). Strong performance has also been observed in both traditional and emerging FTA partner countries such as Japan, Iceland, and Australia. With the FTA with the USA the exports to the US market will double in next three years. Next decade will surely be India’s decade in apparel and textiles exports.
On this occasion, AEPC expressed its sincere gratitude to the Government of India, particularly Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Hon’ble Minister of Textiles Shri Giriraj Singh, and Hon’ble Minister of Commerce and Industry Shri Piyush Goyal, for their continued guidance and support to the garment industry.
The Council acknowledged several key government initiatives that are expected to accelerate sectoral growth, including PM MITRA Parks, the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme, Mega Textile Parks, the Export Promotion Mission, the SAMARTH skilling programme, and the development of deeper export strategies for 40 priority countries through engagement with Indian missions abroad. Additional support measures such as promoting extra-long staple cotton cultivation, enhancing ease of doing business, improving credit access for MSMEs through expanded credit guarantee coverage, and establishing national centres of excellence for skilling are also expected to provide significant momentum to the industry.
Looking ahead, AEPC plans to further expand the global footprint of Indian apparel exports through diversification into new and non-traditional markets, supported by targeted export promotion activities during 2026-27.
The Council continues to encourage the industry to adopt eco-friendly and sustainable practices, while aligning with global best standards in environmental and social compliance.
Reflecting on its 48-year journey, AEPC reaffirmed its commitment to achieving new milestones through market intelligence, capacity building, trade facilitation, participation in international events, and strong policy advocacy.
To mark the occasion, AEPC also launched a social media outreach campaign highlighting its ongoing initiatives and the government’s supportive measures for the apparel sector.
Members of the Executive Committee extended their congratulations to all employees of the Council for their dedication and contributions towards the organisation’s continued success.
